Audio recordings have revealed that a Texas firefighter requested emergency flood alerts for Kerr County approximately one hour before the initial warnings were distributed. The recording indicates that at 04:22 on the 4th of July, the firefighter asked for a CodeRED alert to be issued, but the dispatcher informed him that a supervisor’s approval was required. Consequently, some residents received alerts as late as six hours after the request. Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leitha confirmed that officials are trying to establish a comprehensive timeline of events regarding the delays.
The flood situation in Kerr County has been devastating, with the Guadalupe River experiencing a rapid rise due to an estimated 100 billion gallons of rain over the holiday weekend. Tragedically, the flooding has resulted in at least 120 fatalities, including 36 children who were at a nearby Christian camp called Camp Mystic. In response to the disaster, former President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Texas Hill Country, where he expressed the need for better flood alarms to be implemented in the region.
During his visit, Trump praised local emergency services for their efforts and recognized the significant challenges faced by local officials amid the crisis. Reports indicate that some residents, including Kerrville’s mayor, experienced significant delays in receiving alerts, further complicating rescue efforts.
Sheriff Leitha is prioritizing victim identification and the search for the missing, emphasizing that accountability for communication delays will be addressed, but is not his immediate focus.
The communities affected by this disaster are rallying together, showcasing resilience in the face of tragedy. The dedication of emergency responders and the government’s acknowledgment of the need for improved alert systems demonstrates a commitment to preventing similar occurrences in the future.